Tuskegee Airmen honored with I-80 section

DIXON -- Laughs and applause filled the Dixon Veterans Hall Thursday afternoon during a ceremony, that to many, was a long time coming.

More than 100 people honored the Tuskegee Airmen by commemorating a 17-mile stretch of Interstate 80 from Meridian Road to Highway 12 as "Tuskegee Airmen Memorial Highway."

The Tuskegee Airmen, during a time when the military was racially segregated, were the first black airmen in the United States military.

Lt. Col. James Warren, an original Tuskegee Airman, was at the center of the joyous ceremony.

"It's outstanding," he said. "I'm overwhelmed."

Warren, a Vacaville resident, began his military career in 1942 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force and retired 35 years later. He served in WWII with the 477th Bombardment Group.

Warren, 90, explained that in order to be a part of the unique group of men they had to have the proper training and proper instruction.

"There was no walking, we had to run in double time," he said.

"I remember the cadets and those that didn't make it home," he continued. "They gave their lives and I would have been honored to do the same."

"The Tuskegee airmen are a unique group that left a legacy," Warren told the filled room. "We fight like hell to make sure that legacy is respected and understood. ... Thank you for sharing this with me."

Senator Lois Wolk, D-Solano, authored Senate Concurrent Resolution 45 last year to honor the Tuskegee Airmen and the contributions they made during World War II. Additionally Travis Air Force Base, home to the Travis Air Museum, includes an exhibit dedicated to the famed Tuskegee Airmen.

She said drivers will see the road signs honoring the unique men when traveling along the designated stretch of highway.

"We pay homage to their service and sacrifice. It's long overdue, but sincere," Wolk said. "We will remember and others will learn who the Tuskegee Airmen are."

Supervisor John Vasquez thanked Warren for what he shared with the group, but most importantly his service in the military.

"You fought the perils of war and perils at home, simply to be considered an American," Vasquez said to Warren.

Warren chimed in and said there is a title out there, "African American," but that's not me, "I am an American."

A flyover of Warren's Beech Skipper painted in the Tuskegee Airmen colors was scheduled, but weather prevented that from happening. Retired U.S. Air Force Pilot Lloyd Tincher, who was going to pilot that plane, confirmed that he taught Warren how to fly when Warren was 85 years old. Warren followed up at the age of 87 to get his private flying license.

"He was an excellent student," Tincher said. "Not many people get to do that."

"This was the right thing to do," Tincher said of the dedication. "It's been a long time coming."